Strengthening 2SLGBTQI+ Communities to Advance Equality in Canada
Ottawa, January 31, 2025 – The Government of Canada is committed to fostering a just and equitable society for all Canadians, including 2SLGBTQI+ (Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and additional identities) individuals. Today, the Honourable Marco Mendicino, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, announced a comprehensive plan to strengthen 2SLGBTQI+ communities and advance equality across the country.
Key Initiatives
The Government’s plan includes a number of key initiatives designed to address the unique challenges faced by 2SLGBTQI+ Canadians, including:
- Increased Funding for 2SLGBTQI+ Organizations: The government will provide increased funding to organizations that provide essential services to 2SLGBTQI+ communities, such as housing, healthcare, and legal support.
- National 2SLGBTQI+ Strategy: The government will develop a National 2SLGBTQI+ Strategy in collaboration with 2SLGBTQI+ communities. The strategy will identify priorities and establish a roadmap for action to advance equality and inclusion.
- 2SLGBTQI+ Youth Initiative: The government will invest in programs and initiatives specifically designed to support 2SLGBTQI+ youth, who often face higher rates of bullying, harassment, and mental health challenges.
- Strengthening Hate Crime Laws: The government will work with provinces and territories to strengthen hate crime laws and ensure that 2SLGBTQI+ Canadians are protected from discrimination and violence.
- Trans Rights Protection: The government will take steps to protect the rights of transgender Canadians, including by introducing legislation to prohibit conversion therapy and updating the Criminal Code to ensure gender identity and expression are protected grounds.
Quotes
“Our government is committed to building a Canada where everyone feels respected, valued, and included,” said Minister Mendicino. “This plan is a roadmap for action to advance equality for 2SLGBTQI+ Canadians and ensure that they have the same opportunities and protections as everyone else.”
“This announcement is a significant step forward in recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities,” said Sarah Jones, Executive Director of the Canadian Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity. “We believe that this plan will make a real difference in the lives of 2SLGBTQI+ Canadians.”
Background
2SLGBTQI+ Canadians face unique challenges that can impact their safety, health, and well-being. For example, 2SLGBTQI+ youth are more likely to experience bullying, harassment, and suicide attempts. Transgender Canadians face discrimination in employment, housing, and healthcare.
The Government of Canada is committed to working with 2SLGBTQI+ communities to address these challenges and build a more inclusive society for all.
Contact Information
Media Relations Department of Justice Canada 613-957-4207 media@justice.gc.ca
Strengthening 2SLGBTQI+ communities to advance equality in Canada
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